New Delhi: Sawan Somwar Vrat is a special fasting ritual observed by devotees of Lord Shiva during the holy month of Sawan. This vrat, or fast, is kept on Mondays and is believed to bring blessings, prosperity, and spiritual growth. Devotees follow specific rules and dietary guidelines during this period to purify their minds and bodies.
During the fast, participants abstain from consuming certain foods and follow a vegetarian diet. The vrat is not only a time for spiritual reflection but also for practicing discipline and self-control. Knowing what to eat and understanding the rules is essential for those who wish to observe Sawan Somwar Vrat properly.
Sawan Somwar Dates
The dates for Sawan Somwar Vrat in 2024 are as follows:
Sawan Start Date: July 22
Second Sawan Somwar: July 29
Third Sawan Somwar: August 5
Fourth Sawan Somwar: August 12
Fifth Sawan Somwar: August 19
Sawan Fast Rules and What Not to Eat
During the fast, certain foods are prohibited to maintain a satvik lifestyle. Devotees must avoid grains, rice, and lentils, as they are considered ‘anna’. Vegetables such as onion, garlic, and radish, known for their heaty or tamasic properties, are also to be avoided. Additionally, spices like hing (asafoetida), red chili, fenugreek (methi), turmeric, and any other seeds should not be consumed. Salt of all kinds, except rock salt, is prohibited. Surprisingly, even jaggery is avoided during the fast.
What to Eat on Sawan Somwar
During Sawan Somwar Vrat, it is important to choose healthy and nourishing foods to maintain strength throughout the fasting period. Devotees can consume fruits, fresh vegetables, and meals made with sabudana (sago) and sendha namak (rock salt). Milk and milk products like curd and buttermilk are also allowed. Some people eat only one meal a day, so it is crucial to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
A typical fasting diet includes ‘phalahar,’ meaning the consumption of fruits only. Allowed foods include milk and its products like buttermilk, yogurt, cottage cheese (paneer), homemade butter (without salt), and ghee. Certain vegetables like sweet potato, colocasia (arbi), bottle gourd (lauki), and potato can be consumed. Other permissible items are sago (sabudana), rajgeera, arrowroot, foxnuts, singhara, and buckwheat. Spices should be minimal, but black pepper, coriander, green chili, rock salt, ginger, clove, cardamom, and cumin are allowed. Dry fruits, nuts, lemon, sugar, rock sugar (mishri), coconut, and peanuts are also part of the fasting diet.
Observing Sawan Somwar Vrat is a meaningful way to show devotion to Lord Shiva and seek his blessings. By following the dietary guidelines and rules, devotees can ensure they honor the tradition appropriately. This vrat offers an opportunity for spiritual growth and inner purification, making it a significant practice for many Hindus.
Sawan fast rules and what to eat: Discover everything you need to know about Sawan Somwar Vrat, including the start date, fasting rules, and the best foods to eat. Learn about the significance of this sacred Monday fast and get practical tips for a fulfilling observance. Spirituality Lifestyle News -Fashion Trends, Beauty Tips, Celebrity Party News, Relationship advice, Travel and Food Tips
